A fatal crash inside the Interstate 80 tunnel near Green River, Wyoming, on Friday morning resulted in a fire that burned for hours, with falling debris preventing emergency crews from extinguishing the flames.

Authorities confirmed that at least two people were killed, with multiple others injured, but the unstable conditions inside the tunnel have made it impossible to assess the full extent of the disaster.

Firefighters Unable to Enter Tunnel

Thick black smoke billowed from the westbound tunnel, while semi-trucks lined up in both directions due to the closure. Falling debris posed a significant risk to firefighters, forcing them to suspend operations until the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) could assess the tunnel’s structural integrity.

Emergency crews are awaiting the arrival of geologists and bridge engineers from Cheyenne to determine the safety of the structure before proceeding with rescue and recovery efforts.

Mass Casualty Incident Declared

Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County in Rock Springs classified the crash and fire as a mass casualty incident, with ambulances transporting several injured victims to the facility. Due to the interstate closure, emergency vehicles had to take surface streets through Green River.

“My heart is broken for the families and loved ones of the victims of this terrible crash,” said WYDOT Director Darin Westby. “My thoughts and prayers go out to all who are involved.”

Explosions Reported at the Scene

Emergency responders at the scene heard multiple explosions, believed to have been caused by semi-truck transformers igniting. Burst tires may have also contributed to the loud blasts.

The crash occurred at 11:37 a.m., along one of the nation’s key freight routes. At the time, WYDOT had lowered the speed limit from 65 mph to 35 mph due to snowy and wet road conditions.

Tunnels Expected to Remain Closed Indefinitely

WYDOT officials expect the tunnel closures to last for an extended period, pending a full structural evaluation.

Traffic is currently rerouted through Green River, but the heavy flow of semi-trucks on Flaming Gorge Way is raising concerns about the city’s aging infrastructure, particularly the four-decade-old cast-iron piping beneath the road.

“We are really concerned about failures there, and if that shuts down, we are really in trouble,” said Steve Core, Green River communications administrator.

State and Local Officials Monitoring the Situation

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued a statement expressing sympathy for the victims and their families, adding that state agencies are working closely with local communities to provide aid and support.

“We will offer any and all assistance we can to the fullest extent of my powers,” Gordon said. “Safety for the community and for those directly affected is our top priority.”

There is no estimated time for reopening I-80, and officials urge travelers to plan accordingly and avoid the area while rescue and recovery efforts continue.